Although all states have different systems for pursuing divorce and annulments, generally they will all ask the parties involved to do similar things. For example, most annulment procedures require that one or both spouses file a petition for the annulment and provide a valid reason for such a claim. This reason must also come with proof from one or both parties as well. Annulment procedures will then usually follow a review process in which the claims and evidence are examined and then a ruling made. This usually occurs in four stages with various court dates marking the progress through the system. The final step in annulment procedures is usually the court date in which the judge announces whether or not the annulment is accepted and made legally valid.